Israel Launches Major Military Strike on Tehran, Iran's Supreme Leader Evacuated
Multiple powerful explosions rocked downtown Tehran on Saturday following Israel's announcement of a large-scale military strike on Iran's capital. Israeli officials described the operation as a "pre-emptive attack" aimed at reducing perceived threats from Tehran, marking a dramatic escalation in regional tensions.
Explosions and Smoke Engulf Central Districts
Witnesses reported thick columns of smoke rising over central Tehran districts, including areas near the office of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The bombardment created widespread panic and confusion in the densely populated capital as residents scrambled for safety.
Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz confirmed the operation began early Saturday, stating it was intended to "remove threats to the State of Israel." He did not provide specific details about targets or the extent of damage across Tehran.
Iran's Supreme Leader Relocated Amid Crisis
Amid the bombardment, Iranian state and international media cited official sources confirming that 86-year-old Ayatollah Ali Khamenei is not in Tehran. The supreme leader has reportedly been moved to a secure, undisclosed location as part of broader measures to safeguard senior leadership during the military escalation.
Iranian authorities have not provided further details about Khamenei's exact whereabouts or health status, raising significant questions about Iran's command continuity as the crisis unfolds. The relocation represents a major development in the confrontation between Tehran and Jerusalem.
United States Involvement and Regional Impact
International reports indicate the United States participated in the offensive, though officials have not publicly detailed the scope of American involvement. US naval and air assets positioned in the region are believed to have supported the operation, underscoring Washington's long-standing pressure on Tehran over its nuclear and missile programs.
The strikes come amid already strained diplomatic efforts between Iran and Western powers. Iran has consistently rejected demands to dismantle its nuclear programs and maintains it will not compromise its right to uranium enrichment, a central sticking point in negotiations.
Immediate Consequences and Security Measures
Following the explosions, Iranian authorities closed airspace over Tehran and reported significant disruptions to internet and mobile services, fueling confusion among residents. The communication blackout has made it difficult to assess the full impact of the strikes.
In Israel, sirens sounded across multiple cities shortly after the strikes were reported. The Israeli military issued a "proactive alert" to prepare the public for potential Iranian missile launches, although no confirmed counter-strike had been reported at the time of writing.
Regional Tensions Reach Critical Point
While Iran has not immediately announced retaliation, officials have previously warned that United States military bases and personnel in the region could be targeted if Tehran were attacked. The uncertainty surrounding Iran's next move has heightened fears of a wider regional conflict.
The confrontation represents one of the most serious flare-ups in decades of hostility between Iran and Israel, shaped by nuclear disputes, regional rivalries, and ideological confrontation. With the involvement of the United States and the reported relocation of Iran's supreme leader, the situation remains extremely volatile.
International Response and Monitoring
World leaders are closely monitoring the rapidly evolving crisis as it threatens to destabilize the entire Middle East region. The strikes have disrupted international air travel, with airspace closures affecting India-Europe routes and forcing airlines to reroute or suspend services.
The relocation of Iran's supreme leader and the scale of the Israeli operation suggest both sides are preparing for potentially prolonged hostilities. The coming hours and days will be critical in determining whether the conflict escalates further or diplomatic channels can be reopened to de-escalate tensions.
